Benediction

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV)

I ‘discovered’ these verses years ago as I led my congregation through a study of the book of Ephesians. Since then these verses have been the basis of nearly every service I’ve presided over. As often happens for those of us who read the Bible regularly, sometimes the true power of a passage gets lost in the midst of other verses.

Meditate on this prayer the Apostle Paul leaves us. Contemplate its meaning for you in the midst of the battle you are going through right now.

‘To Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…’

The Amplified Bible states it like this: Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]—To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations forever and ever. Amen (so be it).

He is able to carry out his purpose in our lives ‘superabundantly’ and ‘infinitely beyond our highest…dreams’.

What comfort in a day when time and again our dreams get smashed by broken or stressed relationships, financial ruin, political upheaval and poor health.

When I seek refuge from the pain of abuse from others he is there offering comfort like no one else.

When I am humbled by the guilt of my own rebellion because I’ve followed my own desires, my own passions and left the things I know I should do behind, he is there to forgive, cleanse me from all unrighteousness, restore me to his kingdom.

When I am confused by the actions of others and my own feelings of doubt and desire he shows me his peace and walks me through the dark forest of distraction and confusion.

So why don’t we see this power in our lives? What is it that keeps me from accomplishing my dreams, my goals, my wildest imagination? Too often I have to confess that my desires, passions and dreams are self-centered and self-focused. They may have a basis in good things, but ultimately they are to make me feel good and look good.

The important thing to focus on isn’t my failure to succeed but my definition of success. Do I earnestly seek my own comfort and vindication, or to I seek to see God’s power working through me for HIS glory, not mine.

PRAYER: Father, as I go through this day let my mind dwell on the meaning of these verses. Help me to grasp the vast power I have available when on my knees in prayer. Let me see that power exhibited in my private thoughts and my public actions. Amen.

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From our series, 40 Days in the Word. Knowing ABOUT the Bible isn’t the same as making it the one and only authority in your life. Living the Bible is more important that telling others about the Bible.